www.mountmorgan.org.au
Volume 9, Issue 19
25th September - 9th October 2014
Extra pages! Proudly brought to you by Mount Morgan Promotion & Development Inc. ABN 21 391 526 801
Wheelchair Basketball takes locals worldwide - pg 4
Reunion is a tasty treat for Gus & Pol fans - pg 8
Lorikeets go head to head with Pioneers - pg 9
Silver Wattle Day gets thumbs up
Maroochydore resident, Amber Holland was among those to enjoy the 2014 Silver Wattle Day last Sunday. See page 6 for full story. Experience historic Mount Morgan with
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Recently the Rockhampton Regional Council engaged a consultant to give ideas how to make their City Business District more attractive. His first comments were to have it cleaned. For over four years Mount Morgan has had the motto “Think Clean – Be Tidy” so we have been on the right track. Sadly we have not obtained 100% but will continue with the message and it will win through. Daily improvement is clearly witnessed. The other tidiness that we must keep in mind is not to throw rubbish from cars but take it home to the bin. Now, something a little different for this issue’s Pride in your Town. The below has been widely circulated on the World Wide Web and was something we thought worth sharing also. Herald journalist, Emma Elsworthy wrote a blog listing “16 small steps to happiness” . Here are a few. You can find the full list online. • Push yourself to get up before the rest of the world start with 7am, then 6am, then 5:30am. Go to the nearest hill with a big coat and a scarf and watch the sun rise. • Push yourself to fall asleep earlier - start with 11pm, then 10pm, then 9pm. Wake up in the morning feeling re-energized and comfortable. • Erase processed food from your diet. Use the rule that if a child couldn’t identify what was in it, you don’t eat it. • Get into the habit of cooking yourself a beautiful breakfast… Sit and eat it and do nothing else. • Stretch. Start by reaching for the sky as hard as you can, then trying to touch your toes. Roll your head. Stretch your fingers. Stretch everything. • Buy a 1L water bottle. Start with pushing yourself to drink the whole thing in a day, then try drinking it twice.
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• Message old friends with personal jokes. Reminisce. Suggest a catch up soon, even if you don’t follow through. Push yourself to follow through. • Think long and hard about what interests you. Find a book about it and read it. There is a book about literally everything. • Have a luxurious shower with your favourite music playing. Wash your hair, scrub your body, and brush your teeth. Lather your whole body in moisturiser, get familiar with the part between your toes, your inner thighs, the back of your neck. • Become the person you would ideally fall in love with. Let cars merge into your lane when driving. Pay double for parking tickets and leave a second one in the machine. Stick your tongue out at babies. Compliment people on their cute clothes. Challenge yourself to not ridicule anyone for a whole day. Then two. Then a week. Walk with a straight posture. Look people in the eye. Ask people about their story. Talk to acquaintances so they become friends. • Lie in the sunshine. Daydream about the life you would lead if failure wasn’t a thing. Open your eyes. Take small steps to make it happen for you.
Wheelchair Basketball takes locals worldwide
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If you have ever associated wheelchairs with limitations, then you certainly haven’t met any of the Frenchville Rockwheelers. A wheelchair Basketball team, the members have seen wheelchairs take them further than ever expected. And soon, they’ll be taking them all the way to New Caledonia. The team is one of two that have been selected from around the country to head across the globe for a wheelchair basketball development camp. Among those getting set to embark on the project and say au revoir to Australia, are local residents and father and son, Ben and Matthew Lodewikus.
Ben said the team is looking forward to the experience, having already made friends with many of the New Caledonians who will be involved.
“This has been about three years in the making,” Ben said on the upcoming venture.
“I think they chose us because each time we’ve played them, we didn’t go out and just try and flog them – we’d had fun and give them tips.”
“Wheelchair Basketball is something fairly new in New Caledonia. A group headed over to Australia from New Caledonia a few years ago, looking to find two teams to be a part of their project. “Over the next two years that followed, our team caught up with them at competitions and State championships, and they ended up choosing two Rocky teams, out of everyone in Australia.” The trip is set to take place this December. “It’s a seven day trip. They only have one flight in and out, so we arrive on a Thursday and come home the next.” “Our visit is supported by New Caledonia’s Government, who has put in a sum of money towards what we are going to be doing when we get there.” It’s expected to include range of activities, with a whole lot of wheelchair basketball. “It’s going to be a lot of fun. We will be getting a traditional welcome on arrival, and doing some full on activities, site seeing and even deer hunting.” “It’s mostly all about wheelchair basketball though,” he laughed. The Rocky team will be assisting in training sessions during their visit, conducting daily workshops and tournaments. “It’s about getting them up to another level,” Ben said. “The aim is to try and help get them to make that next step. We are bringing our coach, our manager and a referee over as well so the referee can train them up on what they should be doing.”
The trip is set to be an exciting opportunity for Ben and Matthew to combine their favourite sport with a first time overseas experience. The pair will take with them years of experience in wheelchair basketball as well as some very impressive skills. Ben began playing the sport with the Rockwheelers a decade ago. “I originally started playing when our captain Jason Holahan asked me to come to training because he knew about my back injuries, and they had a spot on the Rockhampton team he thought I would fit. Jason has supported me since, encouraging me all the way. “I loved it and still love it. It’s a great release and a lot of fun.” For Matthew, his time with the team commenced three years ago. Despite his younger years, the 16 year old proves he has what it takes to be on the court – already having state championships and an A Grade qualification under his belt. Looking towards the New Caledonia experience, the father and son duo, together with the remaining Rockwheelers are busily raising the remaining funds for the journey. They plan to hold a trivia night in Mount Morgan in the upcoming months in aim of raising funds toward the team’s flight costs. Further details of this event will be supplied in an upcoming issue of the Argus, closer to the date.
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Memories flood back at the Mount Morgan Dam It had been more than twenty years since some of the group had seen each other, but they picked up right where they left off.
The burgers are better... or at least they’re just as good as they were. Polly Cox with one of her well remembered burgers.
Last Saturday afternoon a crowd headed to the Mount Morgan Dam, to reunite, and reminisce on the days that were “Gus n Pol’s Eats”. Open during the 1980s, Gus and Pol’s was a takeaway store, located across the road from the Mount Morgan State High School. It was a popular place for many locals during its five years of operation, in particular a group of Mount Morgan teens. “It became their second home,” former co-owner of the business, Polly Cox said. “They would come in everyday, sit and have a chat. We all became one big family.” And last Saturday was the family’s reunion. Twenty-five years on, the majority of the group reunited, at a get together held at the Mount Morgan Dam. Although the venue and faces weren’t a mirror of their former years, the crowd had no trouble heading back to the glory days. A flashback of the 80s and their time at Gus n Pol’s, the gathering came complete with a pinball machine, a Pac Man machine and a specialised playlist of music. The event was organised by Polly, together with two of the regular teens of the time, Kerrilyn Page and Lizette Dobson. “It’s been a really good day,” Polly said, looking around the crowd at the Dam last Saturday. “Some of the people haven’t seen each other for some twenty years, but everyone has just walked in and picked up where they left off. All have come from the same place, and have known each other for years.”
The day welcomed close on 40 people, with many of the early teens bringing their families with them also. “A lot of people have come. Some couldn’t make it unfortunately, due to work commitments, but that happens,” Polly said. Among those missed on the day was Polly’s late husband Gus, who sadly passed away in 2002. Together the pair operated the takeaway shop from 1984 to 1989, offering a range of foods, with hotdogs and burgers the most popular among the group of teens. The group was able to relive the flavours of their time at Gus n Pol’s on Saturday, with some of Polly’s much loved cooking also available. “We just finished the burgers, cooked up on the BBQ,” Polly said. ... Continues page 5.
When asked if the crowd was still impressed by her burgers, Polly quipped “Oh yes.” “They wouldn’t want to say anything else would they, after all this effort,” she laughed. The preparations of the burgers also brought back memories for most, with a former employee pitching in. “Veen, who used to work for us in the shop, stood at the BBQ and helped me cook. So it was like old times,” Polly said. “Veen’s sister, Glenda, and one of the teenagers from the shop, Lizette, stood and helped too. It was really great.” The reunion wrapped up during the evening. Reflecting: Carol and Tanya Shannon look back on some of the old photos. The day saw three albums and a photo board on display.
Reunited: Errol Baker, Darren Ingram, Jody Barnicoat, Tony Hoffman, Jeff Benjamin and Grantley Jack.
Reminiscing: Polly with Veen Roberts and Glenda Bray.
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Families enjoy fun day out
Predicted rain wasn’t enough to dampen spirits last Sunday. Instead, hundreds headed to see what the 2014 Silver Wattle Day had to offer.
Balloon Buddy: Leon Brown poses for a pic with his new balloon pooch.
The family fun day, which was hosted by Mount Morgan Promotion and Development, saw the Mount Morgan Dam come alive, with a range of amusements and activities. Despite heavy rainclouds making their presence known, attendees were able to enjoy the programme to its fullest for the majority of the day, with the rain only settling in thirty minutes before the event’s scheduled closure. The event was held in celebration of the Mount Morgan area and the Mount Morgan Wattle, and follows National Wattle Day, which is held annually on September 1st. MMPAD said they were happy with how the day turned out. “Well of course it wasn’t fun in the sun for the entirety of the event, but we were lucky the rain held off for most of it,” MMPAD said. “On the whole, it went really well. Everyone appeared to be enjoying themselves and that’s always great to see. It’s also great looking around the Dam and seeing it full of activity.” The event was the second of its kind held by MMPAD, with the first Silver Wattle Day held September 2013. It’s now set to be an annual event on the local calendar. Pictured top: Rockhampton residents Bethanie, Spencer, Marshall, Kalie and Imogen Green enjoying some time in the Mount for the 2014 Silver Wattle Day.
All smiles: Doug and Margaret Hoehne at last Sunday’s event.
7 Send in the clowns: There was also plenty of amusement on offer for the young, and the young at heart.
The day offered opportunity for browsing and buying, with a number of market stalls.
A fashion parade by Debbie Rose Boutique was also part of the programme.
The event treated attendees to impressive live music throughout, with performances by Whiskey Remorse, Level 27 and Strings Solo. John Wilson (pictured above) also entertained the crowd, particularly with his impression of Chad Morgan. Attendees were also able to test out the local waterway, with paddle boats and kayaks part of the day’s fun.
Got the look: Faylyn Cook modelling some of what’s on offer in Debbie Rose Boutique.
And what would a Silver Wattle Day be without some Silver Wattles? RRC Councillor and gardening guru Neil Fisher happily checks out the wattle seedlings available, thanks to local resident Murray Hare.
Full steam ahead: Alexander Connolly and Nicholas Briggs.
Happy snaps at Silver Wattle Day
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Imarni Scott
Jacob Friesacher and Isabelle, Brenna and Caitlyn Perfect. Maggie Law
Janaya Bray, Haidyn Smith, , Latrell Hayden, Bonita Rebel, Carla-Delle Wilkes Hayden, Fi-Anda Wilkes, Edward Lamb and Shai Hayden.. Skye Stegemann with Buddy.
Lucas Marianetti and Todd Toby.
• The Acacia podalyriifolia or Mount Morgan Silver Wattle is found naturally growing in large numbers on the hillsides surrounding Mount Morgan. It can also be found in smaller numbers in the Rockhampton Region and inland to west of the Carnarvon Ranges and southeast to Stanthorpe. • The Acacia podalyriifolia or Mount Morgan Silver Wattle can be found growing in southern and eastern Africa, India, the southern States of North America, some northern parts of South America, parts of Europe and even New Zealand.
• The Acacia podalyriifolia or Mount Morgan Silver Wattle has unique oval silvery grey foliage. The foliage is actually flattened and widened leaf stalks called Phyllodes and not leaves in the true sense of the word. • It is relatively easy to propagate the Acacia podalyriifolia or Mount Morgan Silver Wattle by normal seed raising methods following pretreatment by soaking in boiling water or by scarification. • Yellow dye is obtained from the flowers of the Acacia podalyriifolia or Mount Morgan Silver Wattle and a green dye is obtained from the seed pods.
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Lorikeets and Pioneers go head to head
There are close games, and then there are the edge of your seat nail biters. Last Saturday’s grand final, which saw the Mount Morgan Lorikeets take on the Frenchville Pioneers was undoubtedly the latter. The end score was a true reflection of the intensity throughout the game; with Mount Morgan going down by just two points in the end. A buzz was in the air from the get-go, as both teams took to the field for the 2pm kick off. The local boys charged through a banner of green, yellow and black, to the sound of local support behind them.
The seasons’ award presentation following the game saw Lorikeets Captain, Scott Toby, set a goal on next year’s season. “Bad luck boys. The ball didn’t stick today,” he said. “We’ll come back bigger and stronger next year.” Echoing his words, Lorikeets Coach, Clinton Connolly said he is looking to 2015. “We looked the better team on Saturday but we just didn’t have any luck with the bounce of the ball.
It wasn’t long before points were on the scoreboard, with the Pioneers living up to their name and breaking into the try area first. Mount Morgan quickly responded to the pressure with a try of their own, thanks to Jerry Barney. The tit for tat continued throughout the first half, with Pioneers again heading over the try line, with Mount Morgan following suit with a try by Neville Blake. With both teams having unsuccessful conversions during the first half of play, they headed off the field with a close score of 12 to 10, in favour of the Pioneers. The second half saw both teams come out strong, with neither ready to give up on their hopes for grand final victory. The Pioneers mirrored their actions of the first half and were first to get over the try line during the second half of play. The score was far from a foregone conclusion however as Mount Morgan’s doggedness continued. Jerry Barney powered over the line for a second time during the game; raising the Lorikeets’ score, and so too, the local supporters’ cheers. Despite their strong efforts, the local lads had to settle for runners up with the whistle pinning the score at a tight 19-17 to the Pioneers.
Leading the charge: Duncan Scott heads onto the field
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Emergency crews in the area have received high praise from the Mount Morgan community, following their efforts in a challenging situation last week that involved both a two day manhunt and a number of threatening bushfires. Emergency service crews were on high alert from last Wednesday morning, when a man fleeing from Rockhampton police took to hiding in the Struck Oil area. It was an action which resulted in a grueling search and a number of difficult situations for local and regional emergency crews.
“During mid Thursday morning there was a report of possible shots being fired in the same vicinity the individual was seen the day before,” Inspector Peff said.
Commanding the police response to the incident was Country Patrol Group Inspector David Peff, who discussing the lead up, said:
“Again we put in place a comprehensive containment area and systematically went about searching for or attempting to locate this person. That took a period of six or seven hours.”
“The man was wanted by police for questioning about other offences that he may have committed.
The siege was brought to an end during the afternoon.
“He was located in Rockhampton on Wednesday and then fled from police. Police pursed and it’s alleged the man fired shots at those chasing him. He then fled into some of the bushland near Mount Morgan.” What resulted was a heavily coordinated search throughout areas around Struck Oil and Mount Morgan. The search commenced on Wednesday and continued into Wednesday night and saw the involvement of numerous emergency service departments. The difficulty and danger of the situation was added to during the afternoon, when a bushfire (currently deemed as suspicious) broke out around Leyden’s Hill.
“We had support and assistance from specialist emergency response team from Brisbane,” Inspector Peff said. “They conducted a search of a residential property Thursday afternoon, and in the process located this person and he was taken into custody.” He said a big thanks also goes to the local community. “Personally in my role of this, a big thank you to the community for their patience, tolerance and understanding in supporting police in dealing with something that was potentially very dangerous.” Reflecting on the incident, Inspector Peff said it was both a large operation and a good illustration of team work.
“During the search we were also combating issues with bushfire,” Inspector Peff said.
“It was a really good example of multiple government agencies working in unison to a common goal.”
“This made the situation particularly complex, especially with properties and houses under threat.”
Echoing his words, Acting Superintendent Reid said: “All services worked together well; including the SES, the Rural Fire Brigade, the Police and Ambulance, the QFES and the crews from numerous brigades around the area.”
Local fire crews, supported by members from multiple brigades around the region, worked to keep the blaze at bay. “On the first night that the crews were here, they fully surrounded the fire and blackened out the areas and the crews were monitoring the fire throughout,” Acting Superintendent for Rockhampton Region, Stephen Reid said on the crews efforts. Thursday then brought continued challenges. “There was then another outbreak the following day. Overnight we also had to back burn quite a considerable area of the razorback, poison creek road and the range road.” Some of Thursday’s fire control was conducted under police supervision.
And their efforts have certainly not gone unnoticed. Dozens of community members have praised the efforts and actions of the crews. An example being the following, posted by Moongan resident, Rachel Lamb via Facebook: “I just wanted to recognise the work of our volunteer rural firefighters today and throughout the night tonight fighting the fires in the Moongan, Leyden’s Hill and Struck Oil areas. Thank you to our own Calliungal brigade, brigades from the surrounding areas and police who are assisting them to stay safe. We have such outstanding emergency services in our community both volunteer and otherwise who deserve much more recognition.”
Ross recounts close call
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For local resident, Ross Allan, last week’s unsettling incident was a little too close to home. But then again, it could have been a lot closer. Having worked in the Police Force for 17 years, the Struck Oil resident knows all too well the damage a fire can have on a residence. So when a fire tore down Leyden’s Hill last Wednesday, heading directly for his property, he left with the thought that it was the end of the family home. “It just came down the hill and it was something like 25 to 30 metres above the tree line,” Ross said. “It just roared down Leyden’s Hill. It jumped the fence and then we were scrambling.”
Naturally, Ross thought it was the end of the family home, but as the smoke settled he was perplexed at what he saw. “The house was still sitting there. I was just absolutely astonished,” he said. The family home, surrounded by scorched and singed ground, front and back was completely intact.
Ross, together with his wife Margaret and daughter Aleisa quickly moved to grab their extended family.
“The yard had burned pretty much everywhere but not the house. It was fine. Our caravan and a shipping container were gone, but the house was fine.”
“We have quite a few pets and a commercial kennel. We grabbed the animals and didn’t worry about anything else,” he said.
When asked what he put it down to, he said “the Grace of God”.
“We had birds and a pile of dogs in the back of one car, as well as pet rats and guinea pigs. The other car had a stack of small dogs, and bird cages. “A friend was here at the time and the next thing we were loading animals in the back of his car as well.” “The fire was just raging here,” he said looking around the front of property. They left their home as fire was roaring up to their front gate. What made Ross more expectant for the worse was knowing the emergency services crews were unable to fight the approaching fire. “The fire crews were unable to get too close - they were under instructions to stay away from the area. The gunman was seen in the area and for their safety they had to steer clear,” Ross said. “We went up the Range, to the lookout. I headed back a little later and you just couldn’t see any of this property. You couldn’t see the house from the smoke, it was just so intense.”
“That’s all that comes to mind. It even came up against the back and come up against a wall. It just should have been gone.” Ross said it’s a smile he won’t be wiping from his face for some time. “We had the fireies call in Thursday afternoon, offering any assistance including counselling. And I said ‘we don’t need counselling, we can’t wipe the smiles off our faces’,” “The fact that it is still there is just wonderful. I mean, we don’t own much but it’s important to us.” Ross further said, the emergency services’ offer for support was another example of their valued work throughout Wednesday and Thursday’s incident. “The police, the fireies, the emergency services – they were absolutely brilliant,” he said. “They were already fighting fires up here that day, getting on top of things and next thing, this one kicked in. I don’t think many got much sleep for a few days. They were superb. The hours they put in, and they’re still pottering around today.”
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One of Queensland’s most improved schools: Celebrating success at MMCSS
This past month, Mount Morgan Central State School has received two significant pieces of feedback around school progress and achievement; these being 2014 NAPLAN (National Assessment Program - Literacy and Numeracy) Results for Year 3, 5 and 7 students, and a Discipline Audit.
The school’s Discipline Audit Profile can be viewed on the school’s website www.mtmorganss@eq.edu.au (Support and Resources / Forms and Documents).
NAPLAN 2014 As was the case in 2012 and 2013, the school has again been identified as one of the most improved schools in the Central Queensland Region in 2014 NAPLAN. In each of the five NAPLAN strands (Number, Reading, Writing, Grammar/Punctuation and Spelling) across each of the three year levels (Year 3, Year 5, Year 7), the school’s rate of improvement has exceeded the rate of improvement for the nation. Some 25% of students in these three year levels, achieved in the Top Two Bands in one or more of these five strands. This effectively means that one in four students is achieving two years ahead of their cohort in one or more areas. DISCIPLINE AUDIT 2014 In Term 3, the school received its first ever Discipline Audit and achieved predominantly in the HIGH range, with some areas rated as OUTSTANDING. The purpose of these state-wide audits is to provide feedback on how the school is ensuring a safe, supportive and disciplined learning environment and to inform school behaviour management processes. School Principal, Blair Harp, said that these pleasing results had come about as a result of much hard work and commitment from the team of school staff. He said having a stable and committed workforce over the past four years had ensured that the targeted reforms within three broader areas of improving student literacy and numeracy, development of expert teaching teams and expanding the social and emotional support services for students, had led to the school being identified as one of Central Queensland’s most improved school sites. He added, “Every student at Mount Morgan Central has individual reading and writing goals. Our Teachers and Teacher Aides receive the best training available from local, regional and international experts. In addition, the fact that we have one full time teacher aide in every classroom in the lower school, and at least three hours of daily teacher aide support in every middle and upper school classrooms has ensured our progress has been significant.” Lois Peacock, the school’s Acting Head of Curriculum, added,“While the feedback we have received around NAPLAN and the Discipline Audit has been exciting, we all know we need to continue to learn, grow and be on the cutting edge of what research around best practice in education is. Our goal is for the young people of Mount Morgan to receive the very best educational experiences possible; using the teaching techniques considered national and international best practice.”
Rachael Bannah, Precious Dridan, Bowie Millard, Jacob Sealy, Kahlen Garrett, Lanie Martin, Mary-Rose Donald-Nord, Miriam Kemp, Claire Noonan, Lara Martin, Chloe Forbes, Jacob Kane, Cody Brown and Jackson Mansell. Absent: Savannah Veber, Bonnie Leggo and Cain Saunders. Article and photograph supplied.
Furniture refurbishment program complete It has taken almost three years, however Mount Morgan Central’s Student Furniture Refurbishment program is now complete as of this month. Students in the Year 1, Year 2, Year 3 and Year 3/4 classrooms celebrated the arrival of their new desks, chairs and tidy trays. Since 2012, the school has been working toward ensuring that every student in every classroom in C, D, F and G blocks (nine classrooms in all) has a bright and inviting work station at which to complete daily learning tasks. Pictured are Year Two students, Thomas Tull and Kaylyn Watson, engaged in a writing task.
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The Big Dam gains a mountain of shade Mount Morgan’s Big Dam Playground will receive a new shade structure, with installation to start on the 7 October 2014. Chair of Rockhampton Regional Council’s Parks and Recreation Committee, Councillor Cherie Rutherford says that this new structure is needed in support of the many recreational activities increasingly occurring at the weekend. “The big dam is becoming a very popular spot for friends and family, and the new shade structure over the playground will be a great asset to the wellbeing of the community. “Council crews will commence work on the new shade structure on 7 October, with the project costing approximately $145,000.” The children’s playground will be impacted during the course of the installation, with this area closed off until the building is complete.
“The goal is to have the shade structure erected by 31 October so the playground can be back up and running for the kids to enjoy.” Mount Morgan Big Dam’s newest project should take four weeks to install before residents can enjoy the shade facility along with many others at the great recreational spot located just 2 kilometres out of Mount Morgan.
Council begins trainee and apprenticeship recruitment for 2015 Rockhampton Regional Council is once again looking for local talent to fill our traineeship and apprenticeship roles. The 2015 ‘Grow your skills’ campaign is now open to interested applicants in the areas of Business Administration, Information Technology, Civil Construction, Safety and Gardening.
“For me, the benefit of working with council is the amazing work environment and staff members you are able to work with, learn from and build relationships with. “I also enjoy knowing I am helping to contribute to the community every day that I come to work. That is definitely a good feeling!”
Council’s CEO, Evan Pardon says that Council strives to be one of the Region’s employers of choice through the provision of nationally recognised qualifications.
Keep an eye on the Council website and Facebook page for further details of career opportunities in addition to the ‘Grow your skills’ recruitment drive.
“Council is committed to providing employment opportunities that will help grow and develop our workforce and the trainee and apprenticeship program is an integral part of that,” Evan said.
Applications for the trainee and apprenticeship positions close Sunday 28 September 2014.
Ethan Alder will complete his two year traineeship in Council’s Information Technology (IT) department at the end of 2014. “I enjoy the fact that I’m always doing something different every day,” Ethan said.
Find the team who bring you the Argus on Facebook! Search Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Incorporated.
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Hi Argus readers, Wow what a week we have had at MMPAD! It’s safe to say it’s been one of the busiest for the year. But it’s also been super exciting.
Community Cabinet and Government Reception Forum: Last Sunday, our President, John and myself headed to Rockhampton for the 2014 Community Cabinet. There we were able to meet with the Ministers for Tourism, Natural Resources and Mines, and Environment and Heritage Protection about our local area and some of our organisation’s hopes for future development. Pictured is John and I meeting with Minister for Environment and Heritage Protection, Andrew Powell.
Silver Wattle Day:
And of course we wrapped up the week with the 2014 Silver Wattle Day! A great big thank you to all who joined us for this event. We hope you had a fantastic day. Thanks also go to those who helped add to the fun of the programme. Namely, our fantastic musicians - Whiskey Remorse, Level 27, Strings Solo and John Wilson, the day’s stall holders, Fun Time Amusements, Causeway Lake Boat Hire and Debbie Rose Boutique. A special thanks also to the Railway Hotel for seeing the fishing competition held as part of the event, Murray Hare and family for the Silver Wattle seedlings, and to our sponsors - Rockhampton Regional Council, and the Silver Wattle Caravan Park. And of course, where would we be without our helping hands throughout the day? A huge thanks to all who helped out with the setup, the day’s event and the packing up.
Congratulations:
We’d also like to take this opportunity to congratulate a few of our local residents on some impressive sporting achievements of late. Firstly, to the Mount Morgan Lorikeets for their top efforts in the grand final held last Saturday. Seeing this game first hand, it’s safe to say it was a close one!
It was then on to Yeppoon in the evening for the official Government Reception hosted by the Premier. It is always great to have the opportunity to attend these kinds of events, and represent our local area.
Destination Q:
Also to our young local ladies who are members of the Rockhampton netball team, the Pumas. They took out the grand final this season. We will be bringing you more details on this one next issue. Also set to be featured in an upcoming issue is local resident, Cody Curtis, who has been receiving high praise for his efforts in golfing.
Sharing is Caring:
If you haven’t liked us on Facebook yet, then here is a great reason to do so… Monday, it was then off to the Sunshine Coast for the 2014 Destination Q Forum. The forum was held over two days in Noosa and welcomed the participation of 360 people from around the State. The event focused on growing Queensland’s tourism and delved into the practical steps required to grow or re-new tourism products within the context of collaborative world class destinations. It was a great learning experience for me, and also provided a lot of food for thought and inspiration for some new and improved ideas for our organisation and the local area. Be sure to watch this space for further details.
Each month, we hold a competition via our Facebook page, which sees a challenge for our Facebook friends. Those who accept the challenge go into the draw to win a fantastic local prize. This month saw five amusement day passes to our Silver Wattle Day up for grabs. Congratulations to Bonita Rebel who was drawn the lucky winner. Like and follow us (mount morgan promotion and development inc) to see what we have in store next month. Until next time, Camille Steinberger
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Ted Malone MP Member for Mirani PO Box 56, Sarina Qld 4737 Telephone: 07 4956 1555 Fax : 07 4956 1980 Freecall: 1800 812 340 Email: mirani@parliament.qld.gov.au
Fron your State MP The Rural Fire Service needs you!
The Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) is currently seeking volunteers to join its ranks. The RFSQ would like to hear from members of the community from a variety of backgrounds and with different skills. If you would like to help keep our community safe, now’s your chance. With roles ranging from firefighter to first officer, you could be deployed to assist with fires, storms or floods across the state. There are also non-operational roles available, such as chairperson, secretary or volunteer community educator. As a volunteer, you will not only receive invaluable training and learn new skills, but you will have an opportunity to make a positive contribution to your local community and meet other volunteers. Volunteers must be at least 16 years of age. For more information visit www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au/volunteeering
Funds for community learning projects Community-based training is a great way for many disadvantaged learners to gain new skills and qualifications, and improve their employment opportunities. Recognising this, the Queensland Government has recently allocated $6.4 million to various registered training organisations and community groups across the state to support their delivery of 44 new community learning projects. The latest funding recipients for the region are Jobs Queensland Limited Mount Morgan and Yeppoon, Life Stream Services Inc Rockhampton and Multicultural Development Association Inc Rockhampton.
Supporting Women scholarships Are you a woman looking to work in a traditionally male-dominated field ? If so, a study scholarship from the Queensland Government could help you on your way. Scholarships of up to $20,000 ($5,000 per annum) are available to women from all backgrounds and at all stages of their career to study in a range of traditionally maledominated fields including agriculture and environmental studies, engineering, earth sciences, architecture and building and information technology. The third round of the Supporting Women in Scholarships is open until 2pm on 10 October 2014, for study commencing in 2015. For more information or to apply visit www.supportingwomen.qld.gov.au
During September and October, police throughout the state will be involved in an operation to minimise road trauma and road crime. At this time I would like to remind everyone of the “Fatal Five”. The Fatal Five is a police campaign to cut the state’s rising road toll. Last year the fatal four turned into the fatal five following the addition of distraction as one of the fatal five. Speeding, drink-driving, not wearing a seatbelt and driving while fatigued make up the rest of the Fatal Five. Last year statistics showed about 1200 of the state’s injury crashes in the past 12 months had been attributed to inattention. Inattention is a very dangerous contributor to road safety right throughout Queensland. Many traffic crashes can be avoided by people being smarter - not texting on their phone, not eating that pie, not trying to put their make-up on or trying to do their hair as they drive into work. If you witness any road crime please report this to Police either directly to your local Police Station, via Policelink on 131 444 or via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. I would also like to take this chance to thank everybody for your support, cooperation and patience during the major incident on the 15th and 16th of September 2014. If you were affected by the fires and wish to report any damage that may have occurred to your property as a result, please contact Police link on 131 444 or your local police station.
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by Trish & Greg Mathers Other species we may see at the dam include the Blue-Faced Honeyeater and the Noisy Miner. These two birds are both Honeyeaters. The Blue-Faced Honeyeater is a fairly large gregarious aggressive bird. They are around 25-31cm, and are a golden olive colour, with a white belly which has a dark or black bib from under the throat to around the middle of its chest. The head is black and it has very pretty bare skin around the eye which is blue on adults and olive green on juveniles. They are often seen feeding in banana plants, hence the nickname ‘banana bird’. They feed on nectar, fruit and insects. It is interesting to note that many of our native species which we see here are only found in the east of Australia, often not even occuring in the west of our state. The Blue-Faced Honeyeater is one such bird.
Mount Morgan State High School’s 2014 Awards Ceremony will be held on 12 November 2014. The school is seeking assistance to help with the successful running of this event. If you would like to make a donation in any of the following ways: • Monetary Donations • Book Vouchers • Goods Please contact the school by 30 October 2014 Phone: 4912 5500 or email: office@mtmorganshs.eq.edu.au
The Noisy Miner is also a Honeyeater. It is around 25cm, and mottled grey-brown on the back with grey body and neck which is barred with darker stripes. The wings are a darker grey and some of the wing feathers are edged with an olivegreen. It has a black face but the area above the beak is white. They also have bare skin around the eyes which is yellow. The Noisy Miner is a native but unfortunately is often confused with the Indian Minor, which is an introduced species. The Indian Minor is very dark in colour and is a meat eater rather than a Honeyeater. The Indian Minor is a very aggressive bird and pushes many of our native birds and animals out of their homes, where it takes over, and displaces the natives.
What’s on at the Mount Morgan Library:
The Willy-Wagtail is also frequently seen at the dam. This little fellow really doesn’t need describing, as I doubt there would be anyone who is not familiar with him. Willy-Wagtails are insect eaters, and we can spend ages being entertained by their beautiful little tail wag.
Wednesday 24 September Event: The Great Jigsaw Challenge Time: 10:00am - 12noon Venue: Mount Morgan Library Ages: All Jigsaw fans and enthusiasts are invited to complete puzzles in the library. The clock will be ticking away as jigsaws are completed piece by piece. Bring the family to the library to help!
The photo is of a nestling Blue-Faced Honeyeater which came into care this week, along with a Tawny Frogmouth, which unfortunately died, and a mother possum with baby in her pouch. This poor possum was illegally trapped and taken away from her territory, and unfortunately we do not know where she came from so we can return her. This makes her future very uncertain, as if we release her elsewhere she will try to go back home, and could end up being attacked by dogs or cats on the way, she will also be attacked by other possums whose territory she is crossing. It is against the law to trap and move any wildlife, and hefty fines can be imposed. There are good reasons behind the rules in the Act. Many hours of research have gone into the best guidelines for the best outcome to protect our native animals.
LIVELY Challenges @ the Mount Morgan Library Your library has a great collection of books, DVDs, ebooks, digital magazines, CDs and sports equipment available for loan. Check out the range of challenges, learning activities, makerspaces and games on offer at Council's libraries during the school holidays. All events are free! Bookings on 4936 8043 or 4938 1169
Thursday 25 September Thursday 2 October Event: Mah-jong @ the Library Time: 2:00pm - 4:00pm Venue: Mount Morgan Library Ages: Teens Talented mahjong players from the community will be on hand to show young adults the finer points of this ancient Chinese game. The Mahjong players meet at the library every Thursday afternoon throughout the year. Wednesday 1 October Event: Lively MakerSpace Time: 2:00pm - 4:00pm Venue: Mount Morgan Library Ages: Primary/ Teens Visit the MakerSpace at the library and create something unusual, beautiful or useful. Use your imagination and quirky retro items on hand to explore the process of making.
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Avocado and honey salad
Woodwork Sessions: Ladies interested in learning woodturning, we are starting in Mount Morgan Thursday mornings each week. Please contact 4938 1188 and leave a message with contact details if you are interested. Museum Historical Museum AGM: The Historical Museum will be holding the annual general meeting 25th of September. This will be held at 6pm, at the Uniting Church, Mount Morgan. Rugby Union Club AGM: Mount Morgan Rugby Union Club would like to hold their A.G.M. on the 28/10/2014 at 7.00pm. The meeting will be held at the Railway Hotel. New Members welcome. Raffle winners: Congratulations to the winners of the CWA, Mount Morgan recent raffles: Father’s Day raffle: Cheryl Cunninghame IGA Voucher: won by Storm Slater A big thank you to all who purchased tickets in both raffles.
As the summer starts to come in and the weather starts to warm, it’s time for a lovely salad with a barbecued meal. Sharing a beautiful summer salad with friends and family over beautiful barbecued evening meal with a lovely cooling sea breeze blowing on your back - there’s nothing better.
Welfare Bowls Club - changes to bowling times: Night Bowling will commence this Friday evening . Names needed by 6 pm for the team selectors, games will start at 6:30pm. Tuesdays: names in by 1 pm for a 1:30 start Sundays: names in 9am for a 9:30 start.
So for this recipe you will need: • half an iceberg lettuce • 3 Roma tomatoes • 2 large avocados - peeled deseeded and diced • 1 onion - medium size • and anything else that takes your fancy Where the magic comes in is in the dressing - it’s a lovely mix of mustard honey, can hold the mustard grain seeds, a quarter of a cup of olive oil, a half a cup of white vinegar, 3 tablespoons of American or Dijon mustard, 2 teaspoons of whole grain mustard, 3 tablespoons of honey. Combine all dressing ingredients in a half litre bottle or shaker. Shake vigorously for 2 minutes with the lid on of course. Assemble the salad and just prior to serving pour this gorgeous salad dressing over your salad. Mix it through and serve as in the photo with beautiful barbecued meats - chicken wings, sausages, whatever takes your fancy, and cold beer course. If you’re not able to drink maybe a nice ice cold soft drink. So please enjoy this beautiful addition to your summer bbq meals and you can add anything you like. You can even add anchovies.
Find the team who bring you the Argus on Facebook! Search Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Incorporated.
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Public Notices
Next Argus: Out Thursday, October 9th. Inclusions by 2pm, October 3rd. For further details, please Notice Mount Morgan/Agricultural contactof us:meeting: mmpad@bigpond.com 4938 2312. Show Society invites all Show Society Members, Volunteers and interested people to a thank you BBQ at the Showgrounds, Sunday 11th Sep 2011. With a meeting and idea forum session to follow. Please RSVP for catering by Friday 9th Sep: 04032 92061 WORK WANTED: Trailer repairs, small welding jobs, gates made to- order. Phone Peter: 4938 2965 / Research information request: Information is 0411 893 778. being sought for an upcoming project. If you know of any past information regarding: Nessie Chardon, NEED AN ELECTRICIAN?: RJ Electrician Pty Ltd. the Mount MorganPhone: School0431 of Arts Licence no. 72288. 576 and 101.Library, please phone John on: 4938 2548 / 0429 055 165 or email: MIM’S DETAILING: Cars, motorbikes, trucks and bullocky@westnet.com.au machinery. Wash, polish, interior cleans plus more. For a Mount Morgan Phonebook: job well done call Mimi on 0438 To 518ensure 626. the accuracy ABN: of all54752593640. details within the new local directories, local residents areWORKS: encouraged provide residential BUILDING Anytotypes! Contact Sonnydetails on to the Office. you have had a change of 0409 698MMPAD 054. Licence no. If 21951 address, a change of name or would not like your JAMAHL’S MOWING Hedges contact details includedSERVICE: (if details Mowing, have been in past and Weeding. Phone: 4938 1113 / 0488 449 902. prints), please contact the MMPAD Office at: 61 Morgan Street Mount Morgan or email: mmpad@ NEED A HAND?: RobKat Handy Hire! General Home bigpond.com Maintenance & Cleaning, Yard Detailing & Rubbish
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WANTED: Slasher/ Operator for 8 acre block in GARAGE SALE: Tools, tools, tools plus household Struck Oil. Please phone Sharon on: 0417 004 221. items and c’van furniture and many extras. 85 Byrnes Street, MountSALE: Morgan. Saturday, 27. 7am(Only - 12noon. GARAGE Saturday 3rdSep Septmber after 7:00am). 25 Crown Street, Mount Morgan. LOST DOG:Date Buddy, male, black and silver silky Claimers terrier cross. Wearing collar with tag and flea collar. Sep 26: Twilight movies at Sunday the Mount Morgan Dam. Missing from River Street, Aug 14. Reward “Escape Phone from Planet 7pm. Free entry. offered. Anne:Earth”. 0434 592 065. Sep 27: Bouldy Bush Market and Car Boot Sale. Bouldercombe Recreation Complex 52496 Burnett Sep 7: Swinging Community Consultation Meeting, Highway. 8am -Bridge 12noon. October 4:Services Saint Hall, Mary’s Community 6pm.Anglican Church 125th birthday celebrations. Open includingopen. stalls, Sep 9: Diggin’It! Gardening CompDay - nominations entertainment, sausage sizzle and more. 10am 2pm. Sept 10: GMF Cent Sale. Saint Mary’s, 2pm October 11: Mount Blue Care Trash Sept 10: Grocery CentMorgan Sale at QCWA Hall,Auxiliary East St, 2pm. & Treasure. 8am 12noon. Sept 18: GMF Barefoot Bowls. 1pm. Dee Bowls Club. November 8: CWA Grocery Cent Sale. 2pm, CWA Oct 1: “Spring Time Social” at St Marys Church, 2pm. Hall. All welcome. Oct 8: State School P&C Car Boot Sale. State School grounds, 8am- 1pm.
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FINLAYSON & McKENZIE FUNERALS Mount Morgan Division Sandi Wood (nee Inslay) from Mount Morgan was born and raised within the Mount and is well aware of the needs of the Mount Morgan community. Sandi is Mount Morgan’s funeral consultant and is available for all funeral advice. Contact Sandi for more information and competitive prices with burials cremations or prepaid funerals
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